Australia Day

history · national celebration · australia · civic pride

National Day. Australia Day is celebrated every year on January 26 to mark when the First Fleet, a group of ships carrying British settlers, arrived at Sydney Cove in 1788.

Awards and Honours. On Australia Day Eve, the Australian of the Year Awards are announced, celebrating people who have done amazing things for their country. It's the nation's biggest annual civic event.

Community Celebration. Towns and cities across all of Australia hold festivals, concerts, and citizenship ceremonies on this day to bring people together and recognize what makes Australia special.

Reflection and Respect. Australia Day encourages Australians to think about the country's history and work toward better understanding and reconciliation with Indigenous Australians, the people who lived there first.

Official Public Holiday. Australia Day is an official public holiday in every Australian state and territory, so schools and businesses close to let people celebrate together.